LAST UPDATED
19 January 2026
SOLAR PANEL INSTALLERS IN DEVON
If you're considering solar panels for your Devon home, you've come to the right place. Simple Solar is an established and trusted renewable energy installer based in Devon, serving homeowners and businesses across the county. We design, supply, and install complete solar PV systems tailored to your property – along with battery storage, EV chargers, heat pumps, and air conditioning.
Devon is one of the sunniest counties in the UK, receiving 13% more sunlight than the national average. That means solar panels here generate more electricity and deliver better returns than in most other parts of the country. Over 48,000 Devon households have already made the switch to solar – and with electricity prices remaining high, there's never been a better time to join them.
On this page you'll find everything you need to know about installing solar panels in Devon: typical costs, what's involved in the installation process, and real case studies from our Devon customers. When you're ready, get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Table of Contents
SWITCH ON
TO SOLAR
Why Choose Simple Solar for Your Devon Installation?
Choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right panels. At Simple Solar, we've built our reputation on quality workmanship, honest advice, and genuine aftercare. We're not a national call centre operation. We're a Devon-based company with local knowledge and a team who take pride in every installation.
We manage every project from start to finish, overseeing each stage from the initial survey through to installation and commissioning. Our rigorous quality standards and hands-on project management ensure every installation meets our exacting requirements – and we stand behind our work with confidence.
Our Accreditations and Guarantees
We hold all the certifications that matter:
- MCS Certified – The Microgeneration Certification Scheme is the industry standard for quality. MCS certification is required for access to the Smart Export Guarantee which pays you for electricity you export to the grid.
- NAPIT Registered – Demonstrating competence in electrical installation work.
- TrustMark Approved – Part of the Government-endorsed quality scheme for tradespeople.
- CHAS Certified Contractor – Demonstrating compliance with industry-leading standards for health and safety, and risk management.
We install solar panels throughout Devon, from the north coast to the South Hams, and from the Cornwall border to East Devon. Our coverage includes:
Areas We Cover in Devon
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Devon?
The cost of a solar panel system depends on several factors, including the size of the system, the complexity of your roof, and whether you choose to add battery storage.
Here's a guide to typical costs for residential installations in Devon:
| System Size | Number of Panels | Typical Cost | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3–4 kWp | 6–8 panels | £4,000 to £5,000 | 1–2 bedroom homes |
| 4–5 kWp | 8–10 panels | £5,000 to £5,500 | 2–3 bedroom homes |
| 6–8 kWp | 12–16 panels | £6,000 to £7,500 | 4–5 bedroom homes |
Figures are typical installed ranges and vary by roof, access, and electrical work required.
These prices include supply, installation, scaffolding, and all electrical work. VAT is charged at 0% for residential solar installations – a saving of roughly £1,500 to £2,500 compared to the standard rate.
If you would like us to install battery storage as well, expect to pay an additional £1,300 to £2,500 depending on the battery capacity. A 6 kWh battery suits most households. Larger batteries (12 kWh+) are better for homes with higher consumption or those wanting backup power during outages.
What Affects the Cost of Your Installation?
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Roof type and access – Standard pitched roofs are straightforward. Flat roofs, slate roofs, or properties with limited access may require additional work.
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Scaffolding requirements – Most installations need scaffolding, and complex roof shapes or multi-storey properties may cost more.
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Consumer unit upgrade – Older properties sometimes need an electrical upgrade to accommodate solar safely.
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Panel choice – We can install any panels available on the UK market, but recommend SUNPOWER for their industry-leading 30-40 year, fully comprehensive warranties.
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Battery storage – Adding a battery increases the upfront cost, but allows you to use more of your own electricity and reduces what you buy from the grid. We install all battery makes and models, but recommend the Tesla Powerwall 3 and the Fox range of battery storage.
We provide detailed, itemised quotes with no hidden costs. What we quote is what you pay.
Is Devon Sunny Enough for Solar Panels?
In short: yes, absolutely. Devon is one of the best counties in the UK for solar energy.
According to data from the European Commission's Photovoltaic Geographical Information System, Exeter receives an average of 1,237 kWh/m² of solar irradiance per year. That's 13% higher than the UK national average. Coastal areas like Torquay and Exmouth often see even higher figures due to reduced cloud cover.
This extra sunlight translates directly into more electricity generation and better savings. A 4 kWp system in Devon will typically generate 4,000-4,500 kWh per year – enough to cover most of an average household's electricity needs.
It's worth noting that modern solar panels don't need direct sunshine to work. They generate electricity from daylight, so they'll produce power even on overcast days – just at a lower rate. In Devon's climate, you can expect around 85% of your annual generation to come between March and October, with meaningful output year-round.
Do Solar Panels Work on East- or West-Facing Roofs?
Yes. While south-facing roofs are ideal, east and west-facing roofs are still excellent candidates for solar panels.
Research shows that east- or west-facing panels typically produce around 80-85% of the output of a south-facing system; a smaller difference than many people expect.
In some cases, east-west split systems can actually work better for households, as they spread generation across more of the day rather than peaking at midday. For example, an east-facing roof can generate electricity in the morning during breakfast time, and then the west-facing roof takes over in the evening during the busy dinner period.
Many Devon homes – particularly terraced cottages and older properties – don't have south-facing roofs. That doesn't rule out solar. We'll assess your specific situation during the survey and give you realistic generation estimates based on your roof's orientation, pitch, and any shading.
Solar Panel Incentives and Schemes in Devon
There are various financial incentives that can help reduce the cost of going solar. Here's what's currently available in Devon:
0% VAT on Residential Solar Panels
The UK Government has reduced VAT on residential solar panel installations to 0% (previously 5%). This applies to solar panels, battery storage, and installation labour for domestic properties. The saving is automatic – we simply don't charge VAT on qualifying installations.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
Once your solar panels are installed, you can sign up to a Smart Export Guarantee tariff with an energy supplier who will pay you for every unit of electricity you export to the grid.
Rates vary by supplier – currently ranging from around 4p to 15p per kWh for standard tariffs, with some time-of-use tariffs (like Octopus Flux) offering higher rates at peak times. To access the SEG, your installation must be MCS certified – which all Simple Solar installations are.
Planning Permission
for Solar Panels in Devon
Most residential solar panel installations in Devon don't require planning permission. However, there are some situations where you'll need to check with your local planning authority or apply for consent.
Permitted Development – When You Don't Need Permission
Solar panels on domestic properties are generally classed as ‘permitted development’, meaning you can install them without applying for planning permission, provided:
- The panels don't protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface
- The panels don't extend above the highest part of the roof (excluding the chimney)
- The installation is designed to minimise visual impact
For most Devon homes with standard pitched roofs, these conditions are easily met.
Solar Panels in Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks
If your property is within Dartmoor National Park or Exmoor National Park, additional considerations apply. While solar panels aren't prohibited, the National Park Authorities are particularly concerned about visual impact on the landscape and historic buildings.
You may be advised to:
- Position panels on rear-facing roof slopes where they're less visible
- Use black-framed, all-black panels to blend in with slate roofs
- Consider ground-mounted arrays in screened locations
We recommend seeking pre-application advice from the relevant National Park Authority before proceeding. We have experience working within both Dartmoor and Exmoor and can guide you through the process.
Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings
Devon has numerous conservation areas, from historic town centres in Exeter and Totnes to coastal villages and rural hamlets. If your property is in a conservation area, you cannot install solar panels on a wall facing the highway without planning permission.
Roof-mounted panels on rear-facing slopes are generally permitted, but it's always wise to check with your local planning department first.
If your property is a listed building, or is within the curtilage of a listed building, you'll need listed building consent before installing solar panels. This isn't an automatic refusal – many listed buildings have been granted consent for sensitively designed installations – but it does require a formal application.
We can advise on the best approach for your property and help you understand what's likely to be approved.
Your Solar Installation Journey with Simple Solar
We know that getting solar panels is a significant investment, and you want to understand exactly what's involved. Here's what to expect when you work with us:
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Initial Enquiry (Day 1)
Get in touch by phone, email, or through our website. We'll have an initial conversation and then book you in with one of our expert surveyors.
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Home Survey and Consultation (usually within 1-2 weeks)
One of our surveyors will visit your property to assess your roof, check for shading, inspect the electrical setup, and identify the best location for the inverter and battery. The survey takes around 45 minutes to an hour. We'll also have a conversation with you to understand your goals, discuss your property, and answer any questions. There's no hard sell – just honest information.
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Tailored Quote (within 48 hours of survey)
Based on the survey, we'll design a system tailored to your property and provide a detailed quote. This includes the number and type of panels, inverter specification, any battery storage, expected generation, estimated savings, and a full breakdown of costs.
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Installation (typically 1–2 days)
Once you've confirmed your order, we'll book your installation date: usually within 2-4 weeks, depending on demand, unless you need prior DNO approval which can extend the time period. Our team will organise scaffolding (normally required), install the mounting system and panels, fit the inverter and battery, and connect everything to your electrical system.
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Commissioning and Handover (same day)
After installation, we test the system thoroughly, register it with the MCS, and walk you through how everything works. We'll set up any monitoring apps and explain how to get the most from your new solar panels.
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Aftercare (ongoing)
Your relationship with us doesn't end at installation. We provide ongoing support, can help you sign up for export tariffs, and are here for any maintenance or warranty issues. We're a local company – if you need us, we're just a phone call away.
Devon Solar Panel Installations – Case Studies
Case Study 1
Key system details at a glance.
Case Study 2
Key system details at a glance.
Case Study 3
Key system details at a glance.
Devon customers, real words.
We're proud of the feedback we receive from our customers. Here's what some of our Devon clients have said about us in their Google Reviews:
“Brilliant investment. Great service, Dan and team have been second to none!”
“Simple Solar were fantastic across all aspects - from initial survey/quote through installation and commissioning to ongoing monitoring. Highly recommended.”
“We already had 16 PVs since 2014 but this year realised that battery storage was a realistic option. We approached Simple Solar at Launceston Agricultural Show and how glad are we that we did! Ben, Anna and their team were friendly and professional throughout. Despite difficult installation requirements Lewis and Harvey were absolutely brilliant. We now have an additional 2.2Kw of panels, inverter and 11Kw battery integrated with our original PVs. We are delighted with the service we received from Ben and the installation team and will sing their praises whenever we can!”
“Had 14 panels and battery installed over 2days on an east/west facing roof. All done very professionally by a great team from initial advisor, scaffolding and installation guys. Over last 6 weeks we have used no electric from grid other than standing charges. We have been provided with all documents for seg payments but await our full details as an inputter. ( Can take up to 4 weeks after submitting documents) Our app we were given indicates we could earn £100 even in September. Must add the main installer Lewis went above our expectations of helpfulness and talked us through working details. Would highly recommend this Plymouth based company.”
“Simple have just completed an installation on our property. Absolutely thrilled with the results - the PV generates exactly what they promised it would, and the battery storage is fantastic. We can pretty much power our whole house from solar both day and night. The installation was quick, painless and very neat and tidy, being done over just under 3 days. The team were professional, courteous and very knowledgeable. Every member of staff we dealt with was superb - Ben, Dan, Dave, Anne, Lewis, Harvey and Dave G - thank you so much. I would wholeheartedly recommend Simple Solar if you're thinking of going for solar panels.”
What Our Devon Customers Say
Commercial Solar Panel
Installation in Devon
Solar panels aren't just for homes. Devon businesses – from farms and holiday parks to offices and retail premises – are increasingly turning to solar to reduce operating costs and meet sustainability goals.
Commercial solar installations typically offer even better returns than residential systems. Businesses use most of their electricity during daylight hours, which means a higher percentage of solar generation is used on-site, rather than exported. With larger roof areas, commercial systems can be scaled to match your consumption, and payback periods of 3-5 years are common.
We work with:
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Farms and agricultural businesses – Large barn roofs are ideal for solar, and generation often aligns well with daytime operations.
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Offices and commercial premises – Reduce overhead costs and demonstrate environmental commitment.
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Retail and hospitality – Hotels, restaurants, and shops with high daytime energy use.
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Schools and community buildings – Educational opportunities alongside energy savings.
Commercial installations may also benefit from capital allowances and enhanced tax relief. We recommend discussing the financial aspects with your accountant.
If you're a Devon business interested in solar, get in touch for a free site assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panels in Devon
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A typical 4-5 kWp system for a 3-bedroom Devon home costs approximately £5,000 to £5,500 including installation. Adding a 6 kWh battery adds roughly £1,300 to £1,500. VAT is charged at 0% on residential installations.
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Most residential installations are completed in 1-2 days. From your initial enquiry to a working system typically takes 3-6 weeks, depending on survey availability, DNO permission, and our installation schedule.
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Most installations fall under permitted development and don't require planning permission. However, you'll need to check with your local planning authority if your property is a listed building, located within a conservation area (for wall-mounted installations), or within Dartmoor or Exmoor National Park.
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This depends on your electricity consumption, available roof space, and budget. A typical 3-bedroom home would benefit from a 4-5 kWp system (10-11 panels). We'll assess your specific needs during the survey and recommend an appropriately sized system.
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Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sunshine. Output is lower on overcast days, but you'll still produce power. Devon's climate is excellent for solar – the county receives 13% more sunlight than the UK average.
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Quality solar panels – like SUNPOWER – have a lifespan of 30-40 years. Performance does degrade slightly over time, but modern panels typically still produce a very high percentage of their original output at the end of the warranty period.
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Research suggests that solar panels can add value to a property, partly because they typically improve the EPC rating. A 2023 study by Rightmove found that energy-efficient homes command a premium. Buyers increasingly view solar panels as a desirable feature, particularly given ongoing high energy costs.
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Solar panels require very little maintenance. Rain usually keeps them clean, though an occasional wash may help if they become heavily soiled (e.g. bird droppings, tree sap, etc.). We recommend an annual visual check and periodic monitoring of generation to spot any issues early. There are no moving parts to wear out.
Get Your Free Devon Solar Quote
Devon is one of the best places in the UK for solar energy. With above-average sunshine and rising electricity costs, there's never been a better time to invest in solar panels for your home or business.
At Simple Solar, we combine technical expertise with genuine local knowledge. We're based here in Devon, we install throughout the county, and we're committed to quality workmanship and honest advice.
Ready to find out how much you could save? Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote. We'll discuss your requirements, arrange a survey at a time that suits you, and provide a detailed proposal tailored to your property.
Alternatively, email info@simplesolarltd.co.uk or call us on 01752 916 013 to speak to our team directly.